WGFC crews attend to the second chimney fire in New London in less than a week. Regular chimney maintenance is critical.

The view from Ladder 22's operating platform.

By Secretary Bill Wohl

February 19, 2019

A second chimney fire in less than a week is providing homeowners a powerful reminder about the need to schedule regular cleaning and maintenance for fireplace and wood stove chimneys.

West Grove Fire Company units were dispatched Monday afternoon to a home on Mount Hope Road in New London Township. During the response, the 911 Center reported fire from the chimney top, and the residents removing wood material from the fireplace.

First to respond was Ladder 22 from West Grove, followed by Engine 22-2 from New London. All three chief officers arrived and began to assess the situation, providing instructions for the Ladder to enter the driveway and set up the aerial device to the chimney top. Engine 2 crews went inside to continue cleaning out the fireplace and search for extension.

Also responding were crews on Engines 1 and 3, Tanker 22, Brush and Squad, and the ambulances. Fire police managed traffic at the scene.

Crews on Ladder 22 removed the chimney cap, and used the drop chains to free burning materials from the chimney pipe, while the Engine crew inspected from below. WGFC units were on scene approximately 45 minutes.

For homeowners: regular chimney inspection and maintenance are critical to home fire safety. Building up of burning debris inside chimneys can create fire conditions and hazards while also reducing the proper flow of smoke and gases out of the home. Here are two articles to provide guidance on chimney maintenance:

As an additional safety reminder, please leave the removal of burning materials in the fireplace or wood stove, as well as going to the roof to remove chimney caps during an emergency to the Fire Company. Call 911 and assure a safe evacuation of the residence for safety.